Ohio State marching band to alter some traditions

Published: August 15, 2014 11:33 AM

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Student leaders say Ohio State's marching band won't give out nicknames this year, after the sometimes-lewd monikers played a role in the firing of its popular director.

Jonathan Waters was fired July 24 after a two-month university probe concluded he knew about, but failed to stop, a "sexualized" band culture.

Drum Major David Pettit told The Columbus Dispatch (http://bit.ly/1kGPCL0) on Thursday that band members are willing to give up some traditions "to have a better image and be a better band." They're also receiving training on sexual harassment and rules for student conduct.

Students generally agreed Waters was pursuing cultural reforms. He had led the band since 2012.

Waters has asked university trustees to reinstate him but school President Michael Drake has stood by the decision.